WASHINGTON — President Barack Obama is hosting members of his Cabinet and their families at Camp David on Friday.

First lady Michelle Obama is also expected to attend the rare gathering at the presidential retreat in the Maryland mountains.

The Obamas only occasionally spend time at Camp David. And unlike some of his predecessors, the president has rarely used the retreat for meetings with his staff, lawmakers or foreign leaders.

Friday's gathering comes as Obama and his team seek to refocus on the economy and re-energize a second term that so far is lacking in big legislative victories.

A White House official confirmed the event, speaking only on condition of anonymity in order to do so before it was formally announced.